Counseling in Brooklyn and Virtual
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    FAQs

    FAQs

    Where are you located?

    Our physical offices are in South Park Slope, Brooklyn, on a beautiful tree-lined street, off the F/G line. We will continue to offer virtual or hybrid sessions as well. Some of our therapists will remain virtual only (see bios).

    What are your office hours?

    Each of our clinicians have different hours. A couple work only during the weekdays, while a few have weekend and evening hours available. Once you contact us we will ask you your general availability and then find you a clinician that has a schedule that fits.

    How do I get started?

    To get started, simply send us an email, call, or fill out the form on our contact page. We will get back to you as soon as possible to exchange preliminary information and connect you with the therapist of your choice. You can then either schedule a brief phone consultation with the therapist (free) or go staraght to scheduling an initial session. Before the initial session, your therapist will get you set up with your own client portal where there will find a few forms to fill out, including an insurance form which asks you to call your insurance company (if you are using insurance) and ask them a few questions like what is your copay and do you have a deductible. The initial session is a chance for you and your therapist to get to know each other and to see if the fit feels right to begin working together.

    Do you accept insurance for payment?

    Most of our clinicians are in-network for Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Jeanne Clair, LCSW also takes AETNA, UHC, and others (please inquire). Ricki Grater, LCSW is private pay only.

    We offer out-of-network services for some insurance companies. Please speak with us for more details.

    What forms of payment do you accept?

    We accept all major credit cards and cash (in-person) as forms of payment. If neither of these are feasible, we can also accept via Venmo or Zelle.

    What is your cancellation policy?

    We require 72 hours notice to cancel or reschedule and avoid a cancellation or no-show fee of $75. If we are able to reschedule within the same week, no cancellation fee will be charged. We will always be able to do a virtual session in place of an in-person session if minor illness or a scheduling conflict prevents you from traveling to our office.

    Do you offer in-person or virtual?

    We offer both in-person and virtual sessions, as well as hybrid. However, some of our therapists are virtual-only. (See individual bios).

    I’ve never talked to anyone. What do I need to know?

    You don’t need to know anything. Just show up. Our therapists’ first goal is to create a safe and supportive environment and to get to know you, why you are seeking therapy at this time, and what your goals are. You don’t even need to know your goals, this might be something we figure out together.

    What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

    A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you objectively, without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential.

    Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

    Medication can be effective but it alone does not solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with therapy. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

    How long should I expect to stay in therapy?

    There’s no way of saying. Short-term, solution-focused therapy with a single issue specific goal could take a couple of months, while longer term therapy, such as personal development, dealing with anxiety or depression, can continue for longer. Everyone’s circumstances are unique and the length of time is multi-determined. What is most important is that we communicate with each other about your goals, your experience of therapy, and about what is and is not working for you throughout the process. If at any point you feel you would like to complete your work with your therapist, or wish to do only a certain number of sessions from the beginning, we welcome conversations about how we might structure the process for your greatest benefit.

    How do I know when it’s time to end therapy?

    There are a number of reasons why therapy may come to an end. You may feel your goals are achieved and you want to try putting them into action without the weekly sessions to come back to, you may feel content with where you are and ready to keep going on your own, there may be extenuating circumstances like moving, job change, money matters, or you may feel the fit with your therapist is not serving you as you had hoped. We ask that whatever the reason, when you are thinking about ending, you speak with your therapist so that together you can share the process of coming to a close. This is a great learning opportunity and much can be gained in the termination process.

    How can I make the most of therapy?

    Your active participation, honesty and dedication is crucial to your success.

    What if I have other questions?

    Please feel free to contact us with any other questions you may have.